[Darkheath]

I would agree... this should actually be based entirely on stats. It should all work out tho', I mean a guy with better ratings will have better stats most of the time. Just not ALL of the time. It would also be interesting to see a slight (behind the scenes) performance jump in a guys final contract year. You know, he's pushing to get that better contract. This would open up some more strategic options. A team who has a shot at the division would be more inclined to pick up a guy in his last year knowing he's going to be playing his heart out to impress the team or the arbitrator.

Just a couple of ideas. But would really like to see this stat based. Also, would like to see a counter offer in negotiations. If you offer too low, he should let you know what it would take to stay, instead of getting "pissed" off so easily. I offered a guy $20mil/per season for 2years after pissing him off and he wouldn't even talk to me. He later accepted a $12mil contract in FA. He was so insulted that he took a $16mil pay cut?? I don't think so.